RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS SYMPTOMS
Rheumatoid arthritis (symptoms) is a type of arthritis in which your immune system attacks the tissue lining your joints on both sides of your body. It may also have an impact on other parts of your body.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Meaning
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease (ongoing). It differs from other types of arthritis in that it affects the joints on both sides of your body. You may experience pain and inflammation in your:
- Fingers.
- Hands.
- Wrists
- Knees and Ankles.
- Feet.
- Toes.
Unrestrained inflammation wreaks havoc on cartilage, which serves as a “shock absorber” in your joints. This can cause joint deformation over time. Your bone will eventually erode. This may result in the fusion of your joint (an effort of your body to protect itself from constant irritation).
This process is aided by specific cells in your immune system (your body’s infection-fighting system). These substances are produced in your joints, but they also circulate throughout your body, causing symptoms. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect other parts of your body in addition to your joints, consist of your:
- Skin.
- Eyes.
- Mouth.
- Lungs.
- Heart.
Who Is Affected By Rheumatoid Arthritis?
More than 1.3 million people in the United States suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. It is 2.5 times more common in people who were born female than in people who were born male.
What Is The Average Age of Patient of Rheumatoid Arthritis?
RA regularly appears between the ages of 30 and 60. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, can affect anyone. Young-onset rheumatoid arthritis affects children and young adults between the ages of 16 and 40. (YORA). Later-onset rheumatoid arthritis occurs in people who develop symptoms after the age of 60. (LORA).
Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Everyone is affected differently by rheumatoid arthritis. Joint symptoms can develop over time in some people. In some people, rheumatoid arthritis symptoms worsen quickly. Many people experience symptoms (flares) followed by periods of no symptoms (remission).
Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms consist of:
More than one joint is experiencing pain, swelling, stiffness, and tenderness.
Stiffness, especially in the mornings or after long periods of sitting.
Both sides of your body are experiencing pain and stiffness in the same joints.
Tiredness (extreme tiredness).
Weakness.
Fever.
What Are The Symptoms of A Rheumatoid Arthritis Flare?
The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis flare are similar to those of rheumatoid arthritis. However, people with RA experience ups and downs. A flare occurs when you experience significant symptoms after feeling better for a period of time. You will most likely feel better during treatment periods. Then, stress, changes in the weather, certain foods, or infections cause an increase in disease activity.
Though you cannot completely avoid flares, there are steps you can take to help you manage them. It might help to keep a journal and write down your symptoms as well as what’s going on in your life every day.
What Results In A Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis has no known cause. It is thought to be the result of a combination of genetics, hormones, and environmental factors.
Your immune system normally protects your body from disease. Something triggers your immune system to attack your joints in rheumatoid arthritis. Triggers can also include an infection, smoking, or physical or emotional stress.
What Are The Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnostic Criteria?
Diagnostic criteria are a set of signs, symptoms, and test results that your doctor looks for before diagnosing you with rheumatoid arthritis. They are founded on years of research and clinical experience. Some RA patients do not meet all of the criteria. However, in general, the diagnostic criteria for rheumatoid arthritis include:
- Arthritis inflammatory in two or more large joints (shoulders, elbows, hips, knees and ankles).
- Smaller joints suffer from inflammatory arthritis.
- Positive biomarker tests, such as those for rheumatoid factor (RF) or CCP antibodies.
- Elevated CRP levels or a high sed rate
- Your symptoms have been present for more than six weeks.
